Sean Prager

UCSB Class of 2020

I have a passion for sustainability and making a positive impact. I am looking to apply my skills and expertise to make the world a better place.

 Professional Profile

Highly motivated and resourceful process engineer with 3+ years of experience in process development, optimization, and scale-up within the bioprocessing and biochemical industries. Proven ability to design, execute, and analyze experiments; translate research findings into efficient, scalable processes; and effectively communicate technical information. Expertise in process simulation (Aspen Plus, Aspen HYSYS, Excel, Python, MATLAB), data analysis, and technical report writing. Experienced in troubleshooting, process improvement projects, SOP development, and technology transfer to contract manufacturers. Proven ability to manage and execute projects involving the optimization of biologically derived products to improve yields and reduce costs. Experience with ultrafiltration (TFF) systems, depth filtration, and centrifugation. Expertise in downstream purification, filtration, and solids handling. 

Work Experience

Spero Renewables – Process Engineer       July 2021 - January 2025

• Led the design, build, validation, and SOP development for a 20L/day ultrafiltration system, resulting in a 100x increase in lab throughput
• Implemented new SOPs, resulting in a 30% decrease in production errors and improved batch consistency
• Developed and executed process improvements, resulting in the elimination of hazardous processing aids, a 50% reduction in production costs, and a 40% increase in process recovery
• Developed process simulations in Aspen Plus, Excel, and Python to visualize process scale-up and perform techno-economic analysis, aiding in strategic decision-making
• Successfully coordinated technology transfer to contract manufacturers, creating detailed knowledge transfer packages, including PFDs, stream tables, equipment data sheets, and equipment lists
• Managed bio-based chemical production in a laboratory setting, maintaining 99.8% product purity with zero safety incidents
• Conducted lifecycle assessments, demonstrating environmental advantages of bio-based chemicals

Yield Engineering Systems – Junior Process Engineer         November 2020 - July 2021

• Designed thermal process recipes meeting specifications for temperature uniformity and ramp rates
• Developed and implemented state-space simulations (MATLAB) to analyze control loops and accelerate PID tuning, reducing total time to qualification and improving process stability
• Performed on-site equipment qualification at customer cleanroom facilities, adhering to regulatory requirements and quality standards

Bachelor's of Science in Chemical Engineering 
University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB)
Class of 2020